FIG. 3.

The importance of optimizing mechanical stimulation parameters: Insufficient mechanical stimulation results in low levels of signaling and nutrient diffusion causing low cell viability, ECM content, and mechanical properties. Excessive mechanical stimulation impairs mechanotransduction pathways by physically damaging ECM and sending chondrocytes to apoptosis, which leads to low mechanical properties. Optimized mechanical stimulation yields high cell viability, robust ECM, and improved mechanical properties by delivering nutrients and signaling cells to produce robust ECM components. ECM, extracellular matrix.